[F23 | SP] The Raven's Eye | <<Feeding Your Enemy>>

[Morrigan 0]

Quest: Feeding Your Enemy

 

She’d slept the night away without pause, her exhaustion from the tutorial quest bringing her into a slumber that Morrígan felt she hadn’t obtained since entering Aincrad. Pure enervation had taken over her, and she’d done little in the way of tidying herself before falling asleep on the bed she’d rented. It was neither comfortable, nor intolerable. It simply served a purpose – one which was driving her closer to her main goal.

And yet, here I lay…unable to get up. Her body didn’t ache, thankfully a side effect of the digital environment that had become their world. Yet Morrígan found herself without the drive to rise from the bed for the moment, wanting nothing more than to return to the slumber she had been so enthralled by for the last collection of hours. She’d been awoken by the alarm she’d forgotten and failed to disable before falling asleep; her annoyance at such an event incomprehensible in the moment.

I might as well get up and do something productive. Waste not the moment we have, for it shall be gone far too soon. She couldn’t remember where the quote had come from, not that it really mattered. It was enough to drag her from the comfortable position she’d fallen into, moving towards the washroom – if it could be called that – and beginning her morning ablutions. Not that they were necessary, and yet it was a routine that Morrígan had maintained from the real world – one that she was loath to give up. If nothing else, I will retain this effort from the world I left behind. It…determines who we are as a person, the actions we take – even unnecessary ones.

She wondered at the other players trapped in the world, and how they were holding on to the small things that kept them sane – if there were any small things that kept them sane. The few she’d met had ranged from normal, well-adjusted individuals through to the clinically insane, whom – in Morrígan’s opinion – should have been locked away from society in order to keep the danger they presented far away from others. Mayhaps I should ask some of them, the next time I see them. I’m sure some of the common folk would be inclined to advice me on the various habits they’ve maintained…there must be some, at least. Tucking away the plan, she focused on completing the tasks at hand – the toothbrush she’d managed to procure through difficult means held lightly in her hand as she proceeded to brush teeth that sparkled as if they’d never had any dental issues before. It was one of the few good things about this world, if Morrígan were to be honest; the way in which everything remained pristine, regardless of the care – or lack thereof – that one took regarding one’s own wellbeing.

Placing the items back carefully into their proper position once she had finished, Morrígan turned back towards the room that she’d called home the last while, wondering how much longer she would be trapped within its walls. Well, I’ve finished one quest…why not do another? At least it will pass the time…and besides, they’re good tasks for making headway in this world. She’d already soared through a collection of levels in response to the completion of the tutorial quest; a fact that both brought pride at her success, and annoyance that it had taken her this long to figure it out. She’d scolded herself already, however, and turned aside from the thoughts that were bubbling up within. You’re out of your expertise in this world, so mayhaps it’s time you begin learning the basics…and getting somewhere. For now, that means completing some of the more basic quests. That’s how one learns, complete the fundamentals. So complete the fundamentals. Nodding to herself, she headed back to the bed and gently placed herself down upon it, eyeing the collection of clothing that she’d purchased at the shop following her completion of the tutorial, before deciding she’d find a quest first, dress later. A quick flick of her wrist, and the menu appeared before her, Morrígan giving a soft sigh before scrolling through to the list of quests that she’d discovered available to her.

-

Morrígan uses Spyglass {1} [Search Post Dungeon/Familiar/Field Boss reduced by 5]

 

Statblock

Hide contents Notes [Theme] Morrígan | Lv. 4 | P. 0 | HP [80/80] | EN [26/26] | ACC [2] | DMG [7] | EVA [0] | MIT [6] Tier 1 | Tier 1 Equipment Halberd [Polearm | Tier 1] Enhancement: Accuracy [2 Slot] Enhancement: Damage [1 Slot] Breastplate [Light Armour| Tier 1] Enhancement: Mitigation [1 Slot]  Dark Cloak [Vanity | Tier 0] Enhancement: Nil [0 Slots] Battle-Ready Inventory Starter Healer Potions {5} [Potion | Tierless | Heals 50 HP] Spyglass {2} [Search Post Dungeon/Familiar/Field Boss reduced by 5] Zackariah's Special Draught [Potion | Tierless | HP Recovery I] Big Bertha Braciole (5) [Snack | Tier 1 | Rare Vitality Consumable] Skills   Hide contents Utility Skills N/A Combat Skills Polearm [Rank: 3. Active: Passive. Effect: +5 DMG] Armour Skills N/A Active Extra Skills N/A Inactive Extra Skills  N/A Combat Mastery N/A Familiar Skills N/A Estate Buffs N/A Sword Arts   Hide contents [x8] ST-I (8 EN) | A single-target sword art. [x11] ST-II (11 EN) | A powerful single-target sword art. Only available for use when ST-I was used and successfully struck an enemy the previous turn or if ST-II had been used and missed the previous turn. [x7] AOE-I (7 + [2 * targets] EN) | AOE | A sword art that strikes multiple targets at once. [x8] TECH-A (9 EN) | STUN | A single-target sword art that stuns an enemy. Housing Buffs   Hide contents TBD [Home] TBD [TBD.]

Edited December 23, 2024 by Morrigan

[Morrigan 0]

Feeding your…enemy? That’s a weird quest name… Morrígan selected the item, bringing up further details – what few there were – about the quest itself. It didn’t take long for the information to correlate in her mind with conversations she’d overheard about the quest in question. Smiling to herself, she wondered what it would be like to have a companion attend to her daily routines, one which she could consider a pet – or perhaps a friend, like many other players did. Perhaps this is worth my time after all. I’ve ignored these quests for too long…that ends now. Alright, let’s go find us a companion. She closed the menu suddenly, before leaping from the bed and picking up the outfit she’d picked out the day previous. It was a simple pair of jeans, and a white shirt with baggy arms – similar in every sense to something she had once worn in the real world. Comfortable, but not overly ostentatious, considering the events before her. Her prize, though, was the pair of sunglasses she’d managed to find that were a near identical pair to some she’d had in the real world – a perfect fit for her face, and a strong reminder of everything she was fighting to return towards.

Dressing was a simple thing, and in no time Morrígan was leaving behind the room that had become her home away from home; the door closing softly as she turned towards the stairs that led down and out of the upper level of the inn. She nodded a greeting to another player whom had exited their own room, smiling briefly before heading off towards her destination. A soft wave towards the inn keep on the way out, and she found herself basking in the sunlight that streamed down from the false sun in the sky above. Turning her face upwards, she took a single moment to enjoy the heat of it – amazed, still, by the way in which it felt so real – before turning towards the central area of the town, and her current destination.

’Look, all I need is a bit of insight into where I can find this…gypsy woman. Anything you can offer…’ Morrígan kept her voice level, although she was beginning to feel a bit annoyed. The information broker had been less than forthcoming, mentioning how the information she was seeking was – according to them – prized information that numerous players asked for, and paid a steep price to obtain. A price well beyond Morrígan’s current savings, and if she were entirely honest one that seemed almost criminal. She glared at the smaller man, hoping that she could at least intimidate him into revealing something. He cowered softly, pulling his hands in towards himself even though he likely knew there was little she could do in a safe zone – even with her lack of experience, she was well aware no one could be harmed within the safety of towns and other assigned safe areas.

’Alright! Fine, fine. I won’t tell you exactly where to find her…but rumour has it she’s up on the twenty-third floor this week. And that’s all you’re getting for free!’ He stood slightly straighter suddenly, as if his courage had returned to him. Morrígan in turn, knowing that she had met the finality of where she could push the man, gave a proper curtsy and thanked him kindly before heading off towards the teleporter. In her mind she wrestled with the minor amount of doubt that had crept forward, the twenty-third floor was well above anywhere she had visited previously – and she wondered if it was safe for her to attempt to traverse it. It can’t be any more dangerous than down here, right? It’s not like we’re restricted to certain areas based on our levels…so maybe if I’m careful…? Nodding away the doubt, she leapt up the steps towards the teleporter, calling out the name of the town she had just looked up, before disappearing in a dazzle of light.

[Morrigan 0]

The scene that met Morrígan was anything but what she expected. The settlement, illuminated by softly glowing lamps placed throughout the avenues, seemed welcoming and warm considering it's clear location beneath the surface of the floor itself. Expanses of streets and buildings sprawled from the teleporter pad, blocking the edges of the world from Morrígan’s view. She’d stood in surprise for a full moment, before moving out of the way of anyone else arriving behind her. 

She’d received little information to truly begin her search, which had led to the requirement of asking those she could find if they had any insight; a task that had taken up several hours of her time before she’d managed to stumble across a single individual who had been both knowledgeable, as well as willing to divulge their insight and awareness about the quest itself. 

’The Traveling Gypsy? Yeah, I’ve seen her. So you’re doing the familiar quest? Good luck! A lot of people find it frustrating. I think it’s worth it though.’ The woman reached down and laid a hand upon the dog standing at her feet, a soft smile spreading across her face that made Morrígan both surprisingly happy at the image, and slightly jealous. ’She was on the surface level last I saw, although that was a day or so ago. She may still be there, although I expect she’s at least moved around a bit. Here, I’ll send you a marker of about where she was…’

A small pinging sound announced the arrival of the map marker, confirming the location that the player had been talking about. Morrígan noticed that it was a small distance from the settlement itself, several hours of travel by her estimation. She took a few moments to thank the player for their assistance, the few offers of remuneration for the information cast aside by a casual wave and laughter, before heading out from the settlement. She gave a single last look back at the friendly player, her mind wandering away from the task at hand as she considered the polite manner and helpful behaviour that they had displayed.

She didn’t take any compensation, or favours for the information…she simply wanted to help. A world where everyone did that… She gave a small shake of her head, wondering if she could ever be so considerate. For the time being, however, she knew she needed to focus on getting better, to the point where she had something to offer to others. Determined to find the traveling gypsy for the time being, she left the player behind and headed out towards the wildlands, and the path to the surface.

Edited December 24, 2024 by Morrigan

[Morrigan 0]

The environment beyond the settlement stretched into darkness, cavern walls roaming high above towards a ceiling that was barely illuminated by the glowing moss that seemed to be a natural source of light within the underdark. Morrígan felt alone and vulnerable during her walk, jumping at small movements of shadows as she passed through the area, her eyes darting around in worry and a small measure of fear – her mind racing as she wondered if heading out alone had been such a great idea. She’d had no reason to traverse the area by herself, and yet something had deterred her from asking anyone else to accompany her.

Not that I have anyone to ask, really… A small pang of despair hit her at the thought, and she realised how alone she still was in this world. Although she’d entered it with the intent of finding common ground with others, she’d been left with nothing more than alienation. She didn’t have the skills of the various players that populated the world, a knowledge that came with the expanse of experience they had with online games, which left Morrígan as little more than an outsider, a pretender in a world of pretenders. But…not everyone is like that, right? She thought back to the woman in the settlement that had directed her, kind and welcoming without a hint of judgement towards the clearly lesser player that had nearly begged for assistance. The memory stood out for Morrígan, and she suddenly regretted not getting the woman’s name, so that she could try and connect at a later date.

She tucked aside the small detail she had learnt, determined not to forget it in her further engagement with people. She knew that she needed to make an effort to connect, to create some form of relationship with others. This isn’t home. People won’t throw themselves at your feet, desperate for your affection and attention. They don’t know who you are…and they likely don’t care. These are common folk, their problems go far beyond what you understand…and you need to start learning to understand that. This is what you wanted. She scowled at the words, not entirely incorrect in their accusation. She’d wanted to meet people, to be normal, not fawned over and paraded with the intent of helping one’s own standing. Yet she had done nothing to attempt to connect with those people – at least, nothing of substantial value. It’s time to change that. She vowed to herself, as she crossed the darkness towards a pathway leading slightly upwards, a filtering of light coming down from what was clearly an exit towards the surface. As the light shifted slightly, Morrígan swore to make a difference going forwards, to become more engaged with the other players of the world, and to find her place in Aincrad.

[Morrigan 0]

The bright light of the surface caused Morrígan to wince as she took the final steps out into the open, leaving behind the darkness of the underground world that she had first arrived in. It took a few moments for her eyes to adjust fully, but what she saw before her was less than appealing. A world that was, clearly devoid of any real life beyond the natural creatures and monsters that would roam and call it home. Decay, met with the return to everything natural, seemed to sprawl away before her; encompassing everything in a green that was both rejuvenating and repulsive all at the same time.

It took Morrígan a time before she stepped away from the entrance to the underdark, wondering if she was doing the right thing coming up here. So far she’d managed to avoid any conflict and confrontation during her travels, but the surface world was, somehow, more intimidating than the swell of darkness; darkness that she could melt away into to avoid anything approaching her. She felt vulnerable within the light of day, as if a spotlight shone down upon her, a beacon to anything that desired to do her harm. A shiver raced down her shoulders as she glanced about, wondering where to even begin her search. Before her trees lined the horizon, sparse and yet collected enough to block any real sight into the distance.

Well, there’s no chance I find her by simply standing here. One foot before the next, and the pathway will align before me. Just take the first step. Almost immediately her body responded, moving forwards as if it had never been frozen in the first place. She passed through the first sets of trees, bowing slightly inwards as if attempting to greet her, before moving onwards through to the surface in earnest. Time passed as Morrígan wandered, her feet carrying her forwards without any true destination in mind, her eyes searching for any sign of the traveling gypsy that would initiate the quest that she had taken upon herself to complete.

[Morrigan 0]

Morrígan wandered without any real direction through the forests, coming across sparse open meadows that seemed to hint at signs of a life once lost, slowly regrowing beneath the destruction that had wrought it asunder. The imagery was chilling, in its own way, and she found herself more often than not pushing beyond the small gaps in the woodlands, unwilling or undesiring to remain within their presence for longer than required to confirm that her target destination was not there. The day had passed slowly, and yet seemed to rush forwards. She’d spent the entire time ignoring the small clock in the centre of her display, pretending that it wasn’t there so she couldn’t count down the excruciating seconds that slipped by as she continued on and around, no closer to beginning the task than she was when she’d first left her bed in the morning.

Wait…what’s that sound? She perked suddenly, halting in place as she twisted her head slightly to try and catch the sound that she had heard mere seconds ago. Straining, she tried to place it even as she listened for it to return – the first non-natural sound she’d heard since departing the underdark and making her way onto the surface of the floor. That almost sounded like…a bell? Or a chime, perhaps? It was certainly something metallic ringing… She had a sudden flashback to the hammer and anvil within Lyle’s smithy, and a moment of concern flashed through her before she shook away the feeling with a laugh of amusement. She knew that there was, likely, no chance that she would be running into the blacksmith from the tutorial quest on this floor, let alone by complete happenchance wandering through the woods as she had been.

Still…I should try and figure out where it came from. It must be nearby, if I was able to hear it at all. The sudden soft ting in the distance echoed again, and this time Morrígan was certain she had heard it. Turning slightly to her right, she glanced into the distance, expecting to find nothing as she peered deeper into the trees. Nothing beyond the stark outlines of more trees caught her eye, and yet Morrígan was certain that the sound had come from somewhere in the general vicinity. Well, I have a direction now…at least there’s that. I might as well investigate what lies beyond. Otherwise this whole adventure was nothing more than tantamount to wasteful. Nodding to herself, she headed off in the direction, hoping that she would – through pure accident or coincidence – come across the gypsy woman that she had been tasked to find. A small shiver ran down her spine once more, and Morrígan glanced up in time to see a murder of ravens floating overhead, their forms dark against the bright sky, and somehow nowhere near as ominous as she would have expected them to be in such an instance.

[Morrigan 0]

Half an hour had passed since Morrígan had first heard the ringing sound echoing through the woods, and although she had caught hints of the noise again on the wind, she’d come no closer to its location. Above her, the collection of ravens had continued to float across the sky, keeping pace with her movements through the forest as she delved deeper onto the path towards what she hoped would be the gypsy’s camp.

Odd that they would follow so consistently, though. I’ve never seen that happen before in this world. She glanced up again at the ravens, curious about their behaviour more than afeared by their actions. She doubted that they posed any risk to her, at the very least not in the current moment. Their desire to follow along her path was, however, remarkable in many different ways. It made the world feel more alive, somehow, as if it were more aligned with the real world than the game that it was. Perhaps…they do say that Cardinal can learn…maybe it’s beginning to develop more realistic habits upon the world of Aincrad? I wonder if it can do that… It was a curious thought, for certain, but Morrígan knew it provided no assistance or guidance to her current predicament, and instead placed the thought away for a later time.

Another clearing left behind, and she turned slightly to her left as the ting of the metal sounded once more. It had been growing ever so gently more empathic; a sign that she was, if only a pace at a time, coming closer to wherever the sound originated from. Morrígan took the change in stride, heading off in the new direction without more than a brief pause to orient herself. She knew she’d come a long way from the entrance to the underdark, and that she would have a long walk back to the teleporter to return home, but she decided that it was well worth the distance if she could simply finish the quest. I guess I need to actually begin the quest, in order to finish it. I do hope this isn’t all a waste of time, wandering the woods looking for someone who might not even be there. Well, at least it’s been an experience. She laughed softly at the thought, recognising the attempt to remain positive in the moment. Perhaps it was doltish, but she knew that keeping her spirits high in the moment would do more for her than dwelling on the negativity that lay beneath everything; the thought that it had all been nothing more than a waste of her time. She chose, instead, to focus on the experience and everything it taught her – if nothing else.

[Morrigan 0]

The smell of smoke infiltrated Morrígan’s sense of smell as she stepped into another clearing. It permeated the area, drifting from the distance into the air around her; barely strong enough to be caught, and yet clear in what it was. She turned slightly, noticing in the air above the trees a small haze of grey against the otherwise overcast sky. Smiling slightly at the fact that she had at least found something, she headed off in the new direction, determined to figure out what was the cause of the scent and sight, even if the pairing were little more than a distraction from her task at hand.

’You’ve been trailing me. Is there a reason for that?’ The voice drifted from a nearby tree, the form visible as Morrígan turned with a start – hidden, and yet clear against the backdrop the moment she turned her eyes towards it. An orange headdress covering blonde hair, a black and white dress against pale skin, and eyes that seemed to glitter an odd amber all greeted her gaze, and it took Morrígan a few moments to find her words.

’My apologies. My name is Morrígan, and I’m looking for an individual who can assist with the tracking, and obtainment, of a…familiar, or companion. I’m hoping that if you are not the individual yourself, you might have some insight into their whereabouts. She gave a soft curtsy as she spoke, before staring directly at the individual in a manner that was both intent, and yet no more overpowering than a casual conversation might be. Still, she saw the individual shift slightly, as if uncomfortable under her sight, before answering calmly.

’The travelling gypsy, you mean?’ A small grin touched the edges of the woman’s features, and Morrígan could tell there was a hint of a joke somewhere in the title. Refraining from pressing into the curiosity, she instead nodding in response, remaining silent as she waited to see what the other would say. ’It would appear you’ve found her, then. What you seek is not myself, but rather what I have to offer…’

The gypsy woman held out a small mesh bag, a soft green in colour and clearly filled with some sort of solid pieces. Morrígan glanced towards it briefly, before returning her attention to the woman, waiting to hear what more would be said. She knew there would be some cost attached to whatever was being offered, and wanted to hear the terms before she agreed to anything more.

’I can lend you these treats, in order to assist you in locating one who will become your friend…’ The gypsy let the words hang upon the air, as if refusing to state the remainder of the thought aloud. Morrígan waited patiently for more to be said, but as time stretched on it became obvious that no further words would be uttered, at least not without some sort of prompt to pull them from the woman.

[Morrigan 0]

’Everything comes at a cost. What remuneration do you require in order to attain such a powerful item?’ Morrígan kept her voice level, although she’d begun to be concerned when the silence had stretched on. It was almost never, during negotiations, a good sign to have the other refuse to produce information when offering something. Morrígan had long ago learnt that withheld information was dangerous; either in the moment, or further down the relationship.

’Perhaps…but for now, you may simply have them. Should I require something in the future, well…’ The gypsy suddenly looked at Morrígan with a gaze that seemed both disassociated and yet entirely focused upon her at the same time. The affect was chilling, entirely uncomfortable for the ginger. ’…perhaps one day I will collect, Morrígan.’

The bag was handed over, and the gypsy turned and walked towards the trees that she had been hidden among earlier, leaving Morrígan to stare after her in confusion, and a small measure of concern, as she tried to piece together what had just happened. It wasn’t often, in Morrígan’s limited experience, that NPCs used a player’s name. In fact, the few times it had occurred, were right before disaster had struck. It left a bad taste in her mouth, and a shiver down her spine that seemed to pass on, yet remain as a ghost within her somehow.

The bag was clasped with little more than a pair of ribbons that pulled it taunt and closed, and a quick inspection confirmed that small treats – like those you would give to a pet – were inside. I guess the idea is to draw out a creature with the treats, and perhaps feed them enough that they decide to latch onto you. Similar to training animals in the real world, in a way. This should be easy enough. She glanced around the forest, wondering what sort of creature she’d be looking for as a companion. She still hadn’t determined if there would be a specific animal that she would need to capture – no quest details had been provided, and she’d been left entirely in the dark by the gypsy woman. Moreso than she would’ve enjoyed, if she were being entirely honest.

Perhaps it’s entirely up to me. I can locate, choose and attempt to obtain any animal I can find. Which means… She paused as she pondered the newfound question. She had no idea what she wanted as a companion, and now that she took a moment to stop and consider it more fully, she realised she hadn’t planned anything beyond finding the gypsy woman. A soft sigh escaped her as she shook her head, swearing that she would need to start planning better when it came to the tasks and quests she partook. There is no train more dangerous than a train without a destination, a rail, or a guide. Smirking, she turned on the spot again, eyeing up the forest around her, before her eyes looked skywards. The murder of ravens had drifted ever so slightly closer, and Morrígan wondered again at their continuous trailing of her every step.

[Morrigan 0]

She considered, for a moment, whether the ravens could be drawn down towards her. The idea of keeping a raven as a pet seemed fitting to Morrígan, especially as she considered her namesake. Her eyes followed their movements, deciding that it would at least be worth a try, if nothing else. I could do a lot worse for a companion. At least a raven has many uses…I wonder if you can even teach them to speak in this world. She’d yet to hear of any companions that could talk – most were creatures that would, realistically never utter a word in the real world, and seemed to carry that trait across to Aincrad.

Opening the pouch, she pulled one of the treats from within, holding it in her hand for a moment before opening her palm towards the sky. She stood, waiting, for a few moments before realising that none of the birds had come any closer. They continued to drift upon the winds high above, lazily circling the general area that Morrígan had come to a stop in, but making no change in their general movement.

That would’ve been too easy, I guess. Perhaps I can draw them down some other way. Or perhaps I should just attempt to find something else. I’m sure there’s lots of creatures along this floor that could make a good companion. She gave a single, final glance towards the birds above her, before making her decision to at least try and locate something else. As much as she may have wanted to catch one of the ravens, it appeared as if there would be no chance of doing so in the moment; the creatures content to keep distance from her. I can try again later, if nothing else appears that is worth my time.

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ID239238 | LD: 13 | <<Locate Familiar>> | Failure [-3 to LD roll]

Edited December 26, 2024 by Morrigan

[Morrigan 0]

The forest surrounded Morrígan once more as she clambered over yet another fallen tree. She’d traversed a large portion of the surface area of the floor by now, and although she’d yet to reach any of the edges, she’d come to realise that there was little left of whatever civilised population may have once inhabited the area. A brief read of the limited information she’d had available had told her that Elvenfolk had once lived upon the surface, but a great war had driven them underground; although the details were elusive to Morrígan’s understanding. Especially as she tried to read and traverse the area all at the same time.

Perhaps it would be worthwhile to take a break and orient myself a bit. She looked for somewhere to stop, eyeing a small opening in the trees that allowed a small measure of light – it could barely be called sunlight – to filter down onto the area. Pulling up her menu and withdrawing a small blanket that she had purchased for just such an occasion, she laid the item down before settling herself softly against another fallen tree. Better. Now let’s get an idea of what we’re dealing with here…

She scrolled through the small details that were available in her menu, some collected by information brokers who had released the information for all to use, some from the system itself, all of it relatively useless in helping her determine her next steps. She’d hoped there’d be a compendium of beasts, or perhaps a list of the more common creatures one could find on the floor – and there was, to a degree. However, Morrígan assumed she wouldn’t be able to capture and hold an Elf as a companion.

I should have planned this better from the beginning. She sighed again, knowing the truth behind the words, and hearing the bitter tone in them that was all too familiarly filled with disappointment. She cast it aside, determined not to let her parents ruin this moment for her as well. Something for the future. For now, I simply need to succeed. Which means figuring out a plan of action. One step at a time.

[Morrigan 0]

She turned her attention towards the descriptors of the surface level; what little information there was on it, at least. To the best of her understanding, it appeared to be a forsaken land of forests and wastelands – likely once forested areas as well, from the limited information. She sighed as she closed the menu, leaning back against the fallen tree and closing her eyes as she tried to organise and correlate the information that she did have available to her.

It seems, most likely, that most of this floor was woodlands at one point. If there was a giant war that tore it asunder, then there’s a fair chance that much of the original fauna are no longer…well, available. But…it’s also fair to assume that canines, felines, Cervidae, and a large number of rodents, birds and related flighted animals…and, well, general other forest creatures once lived here. It wasn’t a lot to go on – she’d seen shifting movements of creatures during her travels through the woods, but she’d avoided most during her search for the gypsy – wanting to find humanoids, rather than creatures, at the time. Still…if I have a general idea of what to look for, then I can consider what I want to try and find. Which means…

She began working through the various forms of animals that she assumed could live within the environments she’d passed already, taking into consideration the adjustments for the game world, and the fact that they didn’t necessarily require sustenance in the same measure as real creatures would; a fact that meant that a number of them may even survive and thrive in a wasteland where they would normally not exist. She was quick to through out feline creatures – never having had an affinity with cats, or their larger cousins. Canines were also slowly placed aside as well, as much as she had liked some of the dogs she’d come across, she knew that they required a measure of attention and control that she didn’t have the time, energy or desire to place upon a companion. Would you have to walk a dog in this world…? It wasn’t long before she was left with a smaller list, but one that she found more appealing to her own interests and desires – and one which she knew could at least assist her in finding the right creature for her.

[Morrigan 0]

Right, so…mice, squirrels, hedgehogs, weasels…those would all be easy to find if I can find some source of water…or perhaps nests. Then there’s the various birds and owls… Her eyes flitted towards the sky once more as she considered the birds. The murder of ravens had disappeared for a time, apparently disappointed or bored with her sudden desire to remain stationary. She’d spotted one or two flitting by overhead during her rest, but the majority seemed to have moved on – if only for the moment.

Those would be easy to locate if they’re in flight, but catching them or luring them to the ground would be a lot more difficult. She considered the various arguments she’d come up with for each various type of creature, from the pocket sized mice right up the a large horned owl, or similar breed, which could be used for various scouting and searching tasks. Not to mention those talons in a combat situation…those could do some damage for sure.

She’d listed each of the creatures down on a small, digital notepad in her menu, crossing off the ones that she’d shown no interest in, or assumed she wouldn’t be able to catch to begin with. Her eyes passed over the remaining ones, trying to decide where best to put her effort in. Everything needs water…so maybe let’s start by finding some source of drinking water that they can use. Then I can figure it out from there, right? It was the best plan she had thus far, and although it wasn’t much to go on, Morrígan felt like she finally had a path set before her once more; a task that she could reach for, and almost grab hold of – if she put in the effort and didn’t deviate from it. Let’s do that then, if nothing else, it’s somewhere to get started and I can adjust as I go along. I’m not going to find anything sitting here thinking about it all, as good as planning is.

[Morrigan 0]

Leaving behind the small resting area that Morrígan had settled into for a time, she found her feet carrying her forwards once more. She had no real direction in mind when she’d started walking, knowing only that her focus was on finding some source of water that could lead her towards a collection of creatures that she might be able to befriend. At least, that was the hope. I’m sure finding them will be the simplistic part. Coaxing them into friendship, trust and companionship will be an entirely different matter entirely. A challenge beyond a challenge, but one that I’m up for facing.

Although little more than a wasteland of trees that reminded her, in many ways, of a swamp, Morrígan had come to find small beauties within the surface level’s environment. Glimmers of ancient ruins, small shining examples where natural order and priority had begun to return; a collection of what was and what could be once more, barely visible amongst the otherwise desolate expanse that populated one’s view of the area. It was these small findings that kept her going more than anything else, a desire to locate newfound interests, as well as the completion of the quest.

This almost looks like it was once part of a wall. Perhaps a small gated area for livestock, or farmlands? She eyed the interwoven wood with a skeptical eye. Archaeology had almost been an interest to her; a child’s play lost to time, but one that had been a true consideration before she’d taken on more appropriate roles. Her eyes scanned the obvious signs of modification and manipulation that were ever present in the creations of sentient beings; even the finest of craftsmen could not leave an item untarnished by change unnatural. I wonder if people once lived here, then? Her eyes looked over the remainder of the area; desolate waste that couldn’t provide anything beyond the ill coloured mosses and darkened dirt that was paled by corruption. She tried to imagine what it would’ve looked like before, imagining small areas of controlled grains, flowers and herbs growing alongside four legged creatures similar to sheep. It was a pleasant image that brought a soft smile to her face, before it disappeared into the recesses of her mind.

This area could’ve been wonderful, if not for all the horrors it endured. One could even say it’s saddening, in it’s own way. She took one last look at the empty area, before deciding it was time to move on. She knew that her interest could hold her there for hours, the secrets hidden within likely chaining her to the locale far longer than it should. But the desire to finish the quest drove her away from them, with a small promise – non-binding, of course – to perhaps return one day and more thoroughly explore their depths and histories.

[Morrigan 0]

She’d managed to find a small creek, which wound itself around the various trees, dips and rises that spread across the area. The water itself was a murky brown, a colour which Morrígan doubted could be consumable, but considering it was the first minor water source she had come across, she’d counted it as a small win. She’d paused for a time, settling into a nearby area to watch the creek and surrounding expanse in order to see if any animals came to use it. She wasn’t entirely sure how long she’d sat – moments or hours – but eventually she’d spotted a collection of birds dipping by, flitting across the water before heading for the skies once more. It had been enough to convince her that she was on the right path, if only partially.

Perhaps this leads towards some larger body of water. A river, or a pond. That would make an even better spot for attempting to locate something. She glanced in both directions, wondering which tail of the creek to follow. Her eyes saw nothing that hinted towards either path being more or less beneficial towards her goal, and it left Morrígan hesitating as she tried to make a decision. Well, when in doubt…take a chance. She spun softly, stopping when she was certain one of the directions of the creek was ahead of her. She closed her eyes only momentarily to balance herself out, and push away the dizzying feeling that had arrived, before taking her first step towards what she hoped would be a better place to try and find some animals.

I wonder if this is how hunters used to find their quarries when they had nothing more than their feet and a spear. She tilted her head in amusement, smiling at the thought. In many ways, she was reliving a measure of history – different, to be sure, but similar in some small connections and instances. She wasn’t so deluded as to consider herself in a harsh environment, where she was fighting every instance just to survive, but experiences like this one left her with a measure of sympathy for those who had come before her.

[Morrigan 0]

Morrígan had come to a stop as the lumbering beast had stepped into view. She’d heard no tell of its approach, which was a miracle considering the size of the thing. It was, as far as she could tell, at least the size of a moose in the real world. Broader in shoulder, and strong legs that reminded her of something seen on an elephant, rather than a Cervidae. It had moved with slow, lumbering steps, the antlers upon its head shifting with a clear indication of their deadly existence. Tines seemed to shine slightly in the limited light, their bone worn down until only sharpened points that could easily puncture her form remained; nearly thirty of them bristling against the wounded environment around them.

If it’s anything like real moose…I should be okay if I don’t approach it… Morrígan pulled back a single step behind a tree, trying to place some distance – and something more solid – between her and the creature before her. She had little doubt that there would be no way of taming the creature, considering its size alone, and found herself retreating instead. Content to watch the large beast saunter through the area, she wondered what had brought about its existence; what possible purpose could it serve in a game? Likely there’s a quest, or some good reason to hunt it for players…or perhaps it’s little more than an object to be seen? To provide some realism? Either way, it’s…intimidating.

She had little embarrassment in admitting to the aura that it gave off; the way in which it strode by caused her heart to race slightly more, and she found herself without any desire to approach it further. Standing still, she breathed calmly and slowly as the thing continued on its path, clearly disinterested in her existence as it passed by her hiding spot, before moving onwards – and eventually beyond her sight. Morrígan noticed, even as it was within reach of her, how little noise it made, almost as if it wasn’t even there.

She let out the breath she’d held as it truly disappeared from sight, leaving her alone in the forest once more. Less than calmly, she stepped out from behind the tree, glancing in the direction it had gone, before heading along the original path she’d been taking. That was…that was an experience. She wondered if she’d see more creatures similar to that one, or if she’d just come across something wonderful that was a once in a life time event. Either way, she was pleased to have experienced it at all.

[Morrigan 0]

The creek continued to wind through the forest, and Morrígan began to wonder if she was simply chasing a false hope. She’d neither spotted nor heard tell of any change to the creek’s presence, and although it continued to wind through the woods, she had begun to wonder if it would simply end suddenly at a wall or in a tree. The doubts hadn’t stopped her from following it, however, and she’d pressed forwards with an intent that bespoke the determination she felt to find the end. If for no reason other than to say she had followed through, and confirmed her expectations.

Never give up until it’s clear you cannot win. There’s still a chance this leads to somewhere, so I’ll keep following it…until it’s clear it leads nowhere. The thought was enough to drive her onwards even as her feet began to ache slightly. She had no doubts that she’d need a break eventually, but for the time being she was content to simply follow the winding water at a casual pace; eyes shifting across the sparse woods in search of any movement that might be other critters.

That looks almost like a porcupine. She’d come to a stop only a few moments after her last consideration of her pathway, spotting the movement of the animal as she’d come around a tree. The sharp quills on its back – shaped like blades with edges that she was certain would slice open her hands without issue – stood out from every visible aspect of its body. Morrígan was careful not to approach the creature after she’d stopped to watch it for a moment, shifting her path ever so slightly to go around the thing, well out of range of it. I’ve no idea if these are anything like their real counterparts, but best not to disturb the beast if unrequired. She kept a single eye on it as she moved around, only looking away once she was certain she had left it behind enough that it no longer posed any sort of threat to her.

[Morrigan 0]

The pond stretched out before Morrígan in an almost beautiful way. The water was murky, disgusting to look at and carried a soft hint of a stench that would have been repulsive at best if she’d come across it without intention. It was, in the moment, however, a perfect reward for the continued persistence she had put into the task.

It had appeared almost instantly, as she’d come through a collection of branches and brush, spreading out before her as it stretched from the edge she’d stopped at and towards the trees on the far side. It wasn’t large – Morrígan assumed it was no more than ten metres across to the far side – but a grouping of trails that were clearly used by animals to reach the water’s edge were obvious; a sign that something came here for sustenance.

It’s not perfect, it’s not a great success…but it’s here. Which means that I did something, got something right. She let herself smile at her accomplishment. As small as it may have been, she’d at least managed to come this far without giving up – something that she took pride in. There’s still more work to do ahead, but for the time being…for the time being I can at least take a moment of salvation in the fact that I managed this.

She settled against a tree trunk that gave her a good view of the pond’s various trails, while keeping her a good distance from them. She knew that being too close would simply drive away any animals that wanted to drink from the pond, but that she needed to be able to see anything approaching at the same time. Alright, I’m here…now to wait. Hopefully this next part doesn’t take too long…I’ve already been out far longer than I had expected.

[Morrigan 0]

Morrígan had almost fallen asleep when the first creature had pushed its way through the trees. It was only the soft sound of the brush parting that had alerted her, the small critter making nearly no noise at all as it had shuffled into view. A tiny nose, dark against the brown and green that surrounded it, sniffed at the air cautiously before it had continued forwards towards the water’s edge. Everything about its movements and form seemed to exert a level of caution and fear, and as it came closer Morrígan finally got a good look at its full form.

Whatever it was, it reminded Morrígan of an oddly shaped rabbit, covered in soft brown and grey fur, with two flopped ears hanging from either side of its head. The thing was, in a way, cute – or at least she could see how others would think it was cute. In the same way that people find similar critters adorable. She gazed at it, watching as it took a few small drinks from the pond, before dashing off into the distance and disappearing from her sight once more. She’d made no move to intercept or stop it, uninterested in attempting to coerce it into friendship.

There’s not a lot of animals coming through this way. Maybe this wasn’t the best place to wait for something to come to me… She gave a soft shrug of her shoulders, preparing to rise from the ground. A shuffle above her drew her attention, and Morrígan watched as the murder of ravens – or one very similar to them – dropped from the sky into the treetops above her, settling in and silently watching from above for any sign of movement. A soft shiver ran down her spine in response, and she wondered if they were watching her, for a moment. That’s ominous…and highly unlikely. Moreso likely that they’ve simply come to settle here, and were unaware of my presence. They’ll likely leave the moment I get up and begin moving about.

Edited December 27, 2024 by Morrigan

[Morrigan 0]

Morrígan rose to her feet, stepping out from the area she’d settled into and standing in the clearing, staring up at the collection of birds that stared back at her in kind. None seemed disturbed by her presence, nor her sudden appearance, and once again she felt an odd, ominous feeling at their very existence in the area. She couldn’t shake the feeling that they had been following her since she’d left the underdark, and that these were – somehow – the same murder of ravens, keeping an eye on her and watching her movements throughout the day for reasons that extended beyond her understanding.

Well, that’s not a good sign…I think. Or maybe…? Slowly and carefully, she pulled the bag of treats from her bag, holding it up and out a little bit to show the creatures above her what she had in her hand. Carefully, moving with a slowness that felt almost too exaggerated, she pulled open the bag to reveal the treats within. She pulled one of them out, gingerly holding it up so that the birds could see, waiting for one of them to take the bait.

A shift of movement and one of the ravens – a bird that carried markings of a purple-blue colour along its wings and torso, against the regular black colour of its body – settled onto a branch closer to Morrígan, its head twisting slightly as it attempted to see what was in her hand better. Morrígan held still, waiting as the thing studied her hand, the bag and the treat in question. She resisted the urge to reach out and catch it, knowing that it would be detrimental to show any sign of aggression towards the bird. I need to make it come to me…so we need to do this slowly. Carefully. Precisely. Let it make the first move. Settling back onto her heel slightly, she held her palm open and waited to see what the bird would do, her decision made and her determination holding her in place.

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ID239338 | LD: 19 | <<Locate Familiar>> | Success!

Edited December 27, 2024 by Morrigan